FMA Annual Events
Honoring Legacies, Inspiring Discourse, Uniting Voices at the Annual Events of the FMA
European Parliament Former Members Association (FMA) – Annual Events 9-10 April 2024
The Former Members Association is excited to announce its Annual Events scheduled for April 9th to 10th, 2024, in Brussels. Alongside a special “Visit to Belgium”, coinciding with the current Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU on April 8th to 9th, this gathering promises three days of engaging meetings among former colleagues and representatives. Beyond professional discussions, it is also an occasion for collective reflection on European values and a moment of commemoration through the Memorial Service for the deceased formers and currents MEP.
The FMA’s annual events comprise three distinct yet complementary gatherings: the Annual Memorial Service, the Dinner Debate, and the Annual General Assembly, all woven together to foster moments of sharing, debate, and unity among participants.
ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE
On 9 April 2024 from 17.45 to 18.15, the fifteenth Annual Memorial Service for deceased former Members of the European Parliament will take place, organised by the FMA under the patronage of the European Parliament. We will commemorate the former and current MEPs who have passed away in 2023-2024, adhering to the principle that once a MEP, always a MEP. This year, the FMA will honor prominent figures whose contributions and dedication have significantly impacted European politics and society, among them are Former EP President Jacques Delors, Silvio Berlusconi, Giorgio Napolitano, and Glenys Kinnock. The roll call will be read by Monica Baldi, Vice-President of the FMA and accompanied with readings by Board members of the Association. Through this commemoration, we aim to honor their legacy and the lasting impact they have made in shaping our shared future. Many former MEPs will be present at this event as well as Klaus Hänsch, FMA President and Former EP President and Pat Cox, Former EP President and the First Vice-President of the EP Othmar Karas.
The service will be held in presence in the European Parliament in Brussels. You can find a list of deceased former MEPs who will be commemorated at the 2023 Memorial Service on the FMA website.
DINNER DEBATE
After the Memorial Service, on 9 April 2024, the FMA Management Committee organises a Cocktail Reception followed by a Dinner Debate in the Members’ Restaurant of the European Parliament. The event will be chaired by FMA President Klaus Hänsch. Guest Speaker Mr Stefano MALLIA, member of the European Economic and Social Committee, will give a speech followed by an exchange of views with FMA members. The audience will be a mix of former MEPs, MEPs and guests. This event is open only to FMA members and guests.
ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
On 10 April 2024, the FMA 23st Annual General Assembly will take place in the European Parliament in Brussels. Once per year, members gather to sum up an intense year of work, to discuss the current activities of the Association and submit their proposals. A new FMA Management Committee will be elected and will meet in the afternoon.
ABOUT THE FMA
The Former Members Association of the European Parliament (FMA) aims at availing of the experience and expertise of former MEPs. The FMA is involved in a wide range of activities including seminars, study visits, university lectures, democracy building, and the spreading of information about the European Parliament and the EU. FMA members are engaged in Democracy Support and Election Observation missions fostering the co-operation with universities by participating pro-bono in the educational programme “EP to Campus”.
PRESS CONTACT
Valerie Raskin, Events & Communication Assistant
Email: formermembers@europarl.europa.eu
Tel. +32 (0)2 284 07 03
Click here for the programme and here for more information.